Sights in Maastricht
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A
Sint Janskerk
Sint Janskerk is a small 17th-century Gothic church, one of the most beautiful in the Netherlands. A remarkable red colour, it photographs beautifully. Climb to the top (€2) for sweeping views.
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Sint Pietersberg Tunnels
Much of Maastricht is riddled with defensive tunnels dug into the soft sandstone over the centuries. The best place to see old tunnels is Sint Pietersberg, a Roman fort 2km south of Helpoort. This is a really beautiful area, pastoral and peaceful - the fort is an arresting sight peeking over the charming hillside - and it's a very relaxing walk from town. If you must, take bus 29, which goes past the fort from Vrijthof.
The Romans built the Northern Corridor System Tunnels throughout the hills over a period of 2000 years; at one stage, the tunnels extended under the Netherlands-Belgium border. Thirteen species of bats have been found living below the surface.
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Fort Sint Pieter
Much of Maastricht is riddled with defensive tunnels dug into the soft sandstone over the centuries. The best place to see the tunnels is Fort Sint Pieter, which dates to Roman times and has now been restored to its appearance in 1701. It’s 2km south of Helpoort. This is a really beautiful area, pastoral despite the ominous walls – the fort is an arresting sight looming over the charming hillside – and it’s a fine walk from town.
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B
Bonnefantenmuseum
The Bonnefantenmuseum features a 28m tower that’s a local landmark. Designed by Aldo Rossi, the museum opened in 1995, and is well laid-out with collections divided into departments, each on its own floor: Old Masters and medieval sculpture are on one floor, contemporary art by Limburg artists on the next. A dramatic sweep of stairs beckons visitors to both floors. Make time for the world-class Neuteling collection of medieval art.
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C
Vrijthof
Vrijthof is the heart of the city, a large square surrounded by lively cafes and photogenic churches. It's dominated by Sint Servaasbasiliek (Basilica of St Servatius), a pastiche of architecture dating from the 11th century. Sint Janskerk, a small 17th-century Gothic church, is one of the most beautiful in the country. Climb to the top for gorgeous views.
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D
Spanish Government Museum
The 16th-century Spanish Government Museum is where Philip II outlawed his former lieutenant Willem the Silent at the start of the Eighty Years’ War. The exhibits feature statues and 17th-century paintings.
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Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek
This church has parts dating from before 1000 and may well be built on the foundations of a Roman cathedral. There is a separate treasury area that houses gaudy jewels and riches; these you can see for a small and worthwhile fee.
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Sint Servaasbasiliek
The large square of Vrijthof is surrounded by lively cafés and cultural institutions. It's dominated by Sint Servaasbasiliek, a pastiche of architecture dating from 1000.
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Johannes Petrus Minckelers Statue
The statue at the north end of the Markt is of Johannes Petrus Minckelers, who holds a flaming rod - he's the chap who invented gas light.
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Ramparts
The remains of 13th-century ramparts and fortifications can be found across the Maas in the new Céramique district.
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Helpoort
At the end of Sint Bernardusstraat, the Helpoort is the oldest surviving town gate in the Netherlands (1229).
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